# Ecuador organized crime and security crisis

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/series-of-violent-incidents-hit-ecuador-in-may-2026
> Updated: 2026-09-13T00:00:00.000Z. Sources: 189. Developments: 93.

Ecuador continues to face a severe surge in organized crime and gang violence, prompting the government to declare a state of emergency and recognize an internal armed conflict. Security operations have intensified across Guayaquil, Quito, and Manabí. In Guayaquil, the Anti-Kidnapping and Extortion Unit (UNASE) recently conducted 15 raids, arresting 12 individuals for extorting professionals via WhatsApp, with one suspect allegedly directing activities from prison. In Quito, the ‘Plan Protección de Quito’ has targeted ‘Los Lobos’ gang properties in the San Roque and Cotocollao sectors, seizing weapons, drugs, and suspicious documents. In Manabí, joint police and military operations led to multiple arrests in Santa Ana and Bolívar, while authorities in Salinas detained suspects linked to a fatal shooting involving ‘Los Choneros’. The crisis has expanded into the maritime sector, where cartels have transformed local ports into cocaine-trafficking hubs. The U.S. military’s ‘Operation Southern Spear’ has targeted alleged narco-terrorists, resulting in the destruction of 67 vessels and over 220 deaths since last September. While the U.S. claims responsibility for many strikes, survivors and human rights advocates report unclaimed attacks that may be part of a covert CIA program. Protesters recently gathered at the National Assembly in Quito to demand justice for missing fishermen from vessels such as the ‘Fiorella’, following reports of drone attacks and physical abuse. International pressure has escalated as the U.S. Department of the Treasury and OFAC imposed sanctions on a network involving 15 targets linked to the Sinaloa, CJNG, ‘Los Choneros’, and ‘Los Lobos’ cartels. This includes the blocking of 10 fishing vessels, such as the ‘Todos Vuelven’, which allegedly provided logistics for cocaine shipments estimated at 30 to 40 tons monthly. Julio Javier Mero Franco has been identified as a key coordinator.

## Claims

- The raided two-story house is allegedly linked to Fabricio Colón Pico, a leader of the Los Lobos criminal organization. (disputed by 3 sources)
- Fabricio Colón Pico has been in custody since 2024. (disputed by 2 sources)
- Authorities seized passports of unknown origin and provisional vehicle license plates during the operation. (corroborated by 3 sources)
- The U.S. military has destroyed 67 vessels and killed more than 220 people since last September as part of Operation Southern Spear. (corroborated by 3 sources)
- The Washington Post reported that certain fishing boat strikes were part of a covert CIA program. (corroborated by 3 sources)
- Two strikes involving fishing vessels from Manabi province bear the hallmarks of U.S. strikes but have not been claimed by the U.S. government. (corroborated by 3 sources)
- Drug cartels have established a cocaine-trafficking hub in the small ports of Ecuador’s Manabi province. (corroborated by 3 sources)
- Drug cartels are extorting local fishermen in Manabi province due to their navigation skills. (corroborated by 3 sources)
- Approximately 150 police officers conducted a raid in the San Roque sector of Quito on August 13, 2026. (corroborated by 2 sources)
- The operation is part of the Apolo 36 and the Quito Protection Plan. (corroborated by 2 sources)
- The property was allegedly used by individuals involved in micro-trafficking to collect money from drug sales. (single source)
- Seven people were apprehended during the police operation. (single source)

## Timeline

### 2026-09-13: United States expands visa sanctions against former Ecuadorian officials

The United States has expanded visa sanctions against former Ecuadorian officials and their families, accusing them of using public office to benefit organized crime and narcoterrorist networks.

8 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/united-states-expands-visa-sanctions-against-former-ecuadorian-officials

### 2026-09-11: Colombia and Ecuador authorities conduct major security and narcotics operations

Security forces in Colombia and Ecuador have conducted major operations, seizing large quantities of cocaine, military-grade explosives, firearms, and contraband goods while making numerous arrests.

8 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/ecuadorian-authorities-seize-military-grenades-in-daule

### 2026-08-25: Ecuadorian fishermen demand justice after alleged US military attacks

Ecuadorian fishermen and families are demanding justice in Quito following military attacks on their vessels, alleging US involvement and protesting legislative inaction regarding eight missing crew members.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/ecuadorian-fishermen-demand-justice-after-alleged-us-military-attacks

### 2026-08-21: US sanctions Ecuadorian fishing fleet for cocaine smuggling

The U.S. Treasury sanctioned an Ecuadorian fishing fleet accused of smuggling up to 40 tons of cocaine monthly to Mexico via logistical support for high-speed boats.

9 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/us-sanctions-ecuadorian-fishing-fleet-for-cocaine-smuggling

### 2026-08-18: U.S. sanctions Ecuador drug network and blocks 10 vessels

The U.S. has sanctioned an Ecuadorian drug network and blocked 10 fishing vessels linked to Mexican cartels. Separately, police in Quito arrested Los Lobos leader ‘Gato Jeremy’.

18 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/guayaquil-police-arrest-four-suspected-freddy-kruger-gang-members

### 2026-08-15: Ecuador fishermen caught between cartel extortion and U.S. airstrikes

Ecuadorian fishermen in Manabi face dual threats from drug cartels extorting them onshore and U.S. military airstrikes targeting narco-terrorists offshore.

10 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/ecuador-fishermen-caught-between-cartel-extortion-and-us-airstrikes

### 2026-08-13: Ecuadorian police launch major operations against organized crime

Ecuadorian police and military have launched widespread operations in Guayaquil, Quito, and Manabí, arresting numerous suspects linked to extortion, the 'Los Lobos' and 'Los Choneros' gangs, and drug micro-traf

9 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/ecuadorian-police-arrest-suspects-in-salinas-shooting-and-guayaquil-extortion-raids

### 2026-07-22: Ecuador police seize firearms and arrest five Los Águilas gang members in Guayas

Ecuador’s Guayas police seized a firearm, ammunition and phones, arresting five Los Águilas gang members in a raid targeting organized crime.

7 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/ecuador-police-seize-firearms-and-arrest-five-los-guilas-gang-members-in-guayas

### 2026-07-20: Ecuador Military Detained for Smuggling Phones; Forces Reclaim Occupied House

Ecuador navy member caught smuggling phones in a Guayas prison faces legal action, while the armed forces reclaimed an illegally occupied house in Monte Sinaí.

4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/ecuador-military-detained-for-smuggling-phones-forces-reclaim-occupied-house

### 2026-07-18: Ecuador and Colombia capture alleged gang leaders in anti‑crime raids

Ecuador and Colombia arrested alleged gang leaders – ‘Memo’ of Los Tiguerones in Guayaquil, and ‘Carlos Way’ of the Clan del Golfo in Bajo Cauca – seizing drugs, weapons and linking them to multiple crimes.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/ecuador-and-colombia-capture-alleged-gang-leaders-in-anticrime-raids

### 2026-07-18: Ecuador prison raid uncovers hidden arsenal, averts potential massacre

Ecuadorian forces discovered a hidden cache of over 80 grenades, 12,000 rounds and firearms in Guayaquil’s Penitenciaría del Litoral, preventing a planned gang massacre inside the prison.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/ecuador-prison-raid-uncovers-hidden-arsenal-averts-potential-massacre

### 2026-07-17: Spain Courts Reject US Extradition Request for Ecuadorian Drug Gang Leader Wilmer Chavarría

Spain’s Audiencia Nacional denied the US extradition of Ecuadorian drug gang leader Wilmer “Pipo” Chavarría, saying the US charge was too vague; he also faces an Ecuador request over murders and a 2010 bank‑rob

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/spain-courts-reject-us-extradition-request-for-ecuadorian-drug-gang-leader-wilmer-chavarra

### 2026-07-16: Ecuador's National Court seeks extradition of Xavier Jordán and Ronny Aleaga

Ecuador's top court has formally asked the US and Venezuela to extradite Xavier Jordán (US and Aleaga (presumed in Venezuela) for organized‑crime charges in the Metástasis case, also linked to the Villavicencio

6 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/ecuadors-national-court-seeks-extradition-of-xavier-jordn-and-ronny-aleaga

### 2026-07-14: Ecuador and Guatemala legislative committees debate proportional penalties in new anti‑mafia and cybersecurity laws

Ecuador and Guatemala lawmakers examine penalty proportionality in new anti‑mafia and cybersecurity bills, seeking constitutional balance and alignment with international standards.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/ecuador-and-guatemala-legislative-committees-debate-proportional-penalties-in-new-antimafia-and-cybe

### 2026-07-14: Ecuador pushes extradition of Karla Saud in $100 million Progen scandal

Ecuador seeks Karla Saud’s extradition after her July 9 detention in Spain, citing alleged $100 million Progen contract fraud; Saud vows to fight in international courts.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/ecuador-pushes-extradition-of-karla-saud-in-100-million-progen-scandal

### 2026-07-13: Ecuador Resumes Trial Preparations in Fernando Villavicencio Assassination Case

Ecuador's court resumes the August 2026 hearing on the assassination of Fernando Villavicencio, with seven defendants and 42 evidentiary items presented.

5 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/ecuador-resumes-trial-preparations-in-fernando-villavicencio-assassination-case

### 2026-07-12: Brother of Ecuador drug lord ‘Fito’ killed in Santa Elena shooting

David Macías Villamar, brother of ‘Fito’ and alleged Los Choneros regional chief, was killed in a police‑uniformed gunmen attack in Olón, Santa Elena on 12 July 2026; no arrests yet, gang rivalry suspected.

12 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/brother-of-los-choneros-leader-fito-murdered-in-santa-elena-ecuador

### 2026-07-11: Ecuador agencies audit football club and raid organized‑crime sites

Ecuador’s UAFE audited Barcelona SC’s contracts while police and army raids captured a drug suspect and seized a crime‑linked property, targeting organized crime groups.

9 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/soacha-colombia-gang-raid-nets-eight-arrests

### 2026-07-11: Ecuadorian Prosecutor Presents Evidence Against Former Vice President José Serrano in Villavicencio Murder Case

Ecuadorian prosecutors presented evidence tying former vice president José Serrano and others to the 2022 assassination of candidate Fernando Villavicencio, prompting a suspended hearing.

8 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/ecuador-prosecutor-links-xavier-jordn-to-2023-villavicencio-murder

### 2026-07-11: Police arrest two suspects, including 15‑year‑old, after Portoviejo massacre

Police captured a 40‑year‑old man and a 15‑year‑old teen in Portoviejo after a Sunday night shooting that killed three and injured three, seizing weapons and motorcycles.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/police-arrest-two-suspects-including-15yearold-after-portoviejo-massacre

### 2026-07-11: Kidnapping incidents in Ecuador and Guatemala trigger police and military response

Ecuador's military rescued a kidnapping victim in Guayaquil linked to Los Fatales, while Guatemalan police arrested two people who faked a kidnapping to demand Q80,000.

5 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/kidnapping-incidents-in-ecuador-and-guatemala-trigger-police-and-military-response

### 2026-07-10: Ecuador police arrest gang members in Guayaquil, Sucumbíos and Portoviejo

Ecuador police raids in Guayaquil, Sucumbíos and Portoviejo detained seven extortion suspects, three murder suspects and a Los Lobos member, targeting gangs Los Águilas, Los Choneros and Los Lobos.

4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/ecuador-police-seize-suspects-in-two-organizedcrime-raids

### 2026-07-10: Guayaquil guard killed; two arrested after armed mall robbery attempt

A security guard was killed in a July 9 shooting in Guayaquil's Portete district, and two suspects were arrested after an armed robbery attempt at a mall on July 7 left two attackers dead and a guard injured.

4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/guayaquil-homicide-and-robbery-arrests-highlight-city-crime-crackdown

### 2026-07-09: Ecuadorian lobbyist Karla Saud released pending extradition to Ecuador

Ecuadorian lobbyist Karla Saud, accused of embezzlement in the Progen power‑contract scandal, was detained in Spain and later released by the Audiencia Nacional pending her extradition to Ecuador.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/ecuadorian-lobbyist-karla-saud-released-pending-extradition-to-ecuador

### 2026-07-09: Colombian security forces capture two high‑ranking armed‑group members

Colombian forces captured FARC‑residual leader “Chivo” in Cauca and Clan del Golfo financier “El Grillo” in Antioquia, seizing weapons, cash and drugs in both raids.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/colombian-security-forces-capture-two-highranking-armedgroup-members

### 2026-07-09: Taxi driver shot dead in Quito; armed robbery hits Paraguay warehouse

A taxi driver was killed and a passenger injured in a shooting in Quito, Ecuador, while in Paraguay a 15‑person gang robbed a DNIT depot, injuring an officer and abandoning three stolen vehicles.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/taxi-driver-shot-dead-in-quito-armed-robbery-hits-paraguay-warehouse

### 2026-07-09: Ecuadorian fishermen rescued after pirate assault off Puerto López

27 Ecuadorian fishermen abducted near Puerto López on July 8 2026 were rescued alive near La Entrada, Santa Elena; one remained hospitalized after being hit, highlighting piracy concerns off the coast.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/ecuadorian-fishermen-rescued-after-pirate-assault-off-puerto-lpez

### 2026-07-08: Colombian police dismantle two criminal gangs in Norte de Santander

Colombian police captured members of two gangs—Los Intocables in Ocaña and Los del Anillo in Cúcuta—targeting motorcyclists and facing serious criminal charges.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/colombian-police-dismantle-two-criminal-gangs-in-norte-de-santander

### 2026-07-08: Santiago Ávalos murder case: five detained, teen placed in preventive internment in Quito

Finance manager Santiago Ávalos was murdered in Quito; five adults and a teenager were detained, with three placed in preventive prison and the teen in internment.

11 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/costa-rica-arrests-guato-deputy-of-criminal-leader-diablo-in-mountain-operation

### 2026-07-08: Two brothers killed in Quevedo military operation, families demand investigation

Two brothers were killed in a military raid in Quevedo, Ecuador; the army links them to Los Choneros, while families call for an investigation.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/two-brothers-killed-in-quevedo-military-operation-families-demand-investigation

### 2026-07-08: Ecuador military seizes weapons, drugs and prohibited items in Manabí prison

Ecuador’s armed forces raided a Manabí prison, arresting three inmates and seizing phones, marijuana, weapons and other prohibited items as part of ongoing security measures.

6 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/ecuador-forces-seize-prison-contraband-arrest-clinic-robbery-suspect

### 2026-07-08: Stray bullets hit homes in Guayaquil, injuring a student and killing a mother

Stray bullets in Guayaquil injured a teenage student and killed a mother, leaving three children orphaned and highlighting local gun‑fire violence.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/stray-bullets-hit-homes-in-guayaquil-injuring-a-student-and-killing-a-mother

### 2026-07-07: Guayaquil mall armed robbery leaves two gunmen dead, several arrested

Armed assailants attacked a cash‑in‑transit vehicle at a Guayaquil mall on July 7, killing two gunmen, injuring a guard and leading to several arrests and seizure of $508 k.

7 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/armed-robbery-and-shootout-at-guayaquil-mall-leaves-two-assailants-dead

### 2026-07-07: Ecuador mother and daughter tried for kidnapping extortion of Quito lawyer

Mother and daughter in Quito were tried for extortion kidnapping of a lawyer, with the mother placed in preventive detention and the daughter barred from travel.

8 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/veracruz-trial-near-verdict-in-montserrat-bendimes-feminicide-case

### 2026-07-06: Security forces capture gang members in Ecuador and Colombia

Ecuadorian and Colombian security forces seized gang members – ‘Gordo Zapatón’ of Los Tiguerones in Guayaquil and ‘Nieto’ of the Dagoberto Ramos network in Cauca – confiscating weapons and drugs.

6 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/security-forces-capture-gang-members-in-ecuador-and-colombia

### 2026-07-05: Ecuador police rescue kidnapped lawyer in Quito, $7,000 extortion demand

Ecuador’s UNASE rescued a kidnapped lawyer in Quito’s San Roque district, arresting two suspects after captors demanded $7,000 ransom.

9 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/ecuadors-unase-frees-two-kidnapping-victims-in-quito-and-guayas

### 2026-07-05: Mexico and Ecuador enact new police reform laws

Mexico's new law bars sanctioned officers from municipal transfers and mandates a unified career file; Ecuador's law criminalizes unauthorized use of police and military uniforms, with up to seven years in jail

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/mexico-and-ecuador-enact-new-police-reform-laws

### 2026-07-04: Ecuador teen shot dead on Balzar‑El Empalme highway

A 17‑year‑old, Pedro Pablo Rosado Intriago, was shot dead during an armed robbery on the Balzar‑El Empalme highway in Ecuador, prompting family demands for greater road security.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/ecuador-teen-shot-dead-on-balzarel-empalme-highway

### 2026-07-04: U.S. adds Ecuador's Chone Killers gang to foreign terrorist organization list

The U.S. designated Ecuador’s Chone Killers gang as a foreign terrorist organization, extending its crackdown on Latin American narco‑terror groups.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/us-adds-ecuadors-chone-killers-gang-to-foreign-terrorist-organization-list

### 2026-07-03: Ecuador Extradites Colombian Suspect in 2015 Quito Home Invasion Murder

Ecuador extradited a Colombian suspect, Alejandro B. M., for a 2015 Quito robbery‑homicide after Interpol‑coordinated tracking, underscoring cross‑border police cooperation.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/ecuador-extradites-colombian-suspect-in-2015-quito-home-invasion-murder

### 2026-07-02: Ecuador experiences fatal bridge shooting and foiled attack on assembly member

A gunmen killed a 21‑year‑old and wounded a teen on a Yantzaza bridge, while a failed shooting targeting assemblyman José Nango was thwarted in Puyo.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/ecuador-experiences-fatal-bridge-shooting-and-foiled-attack-on-assembly-member

### 2026-07-02: Ecuador police bust migrant smuggling ring; Guatemalan trafficker pleads guilty in US truck deaths

Ecuador police arrested three suspects in a migrant‑smuggling ring, while a Guatemalan trafficker pleaded guilty for the 2022 Texas truck tragedy that killed 53 migrants.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/ecuador-police-bust-migrant-smuggling-ring-guatemalan-trafficker-pleads-guilty-in-us-truck-deaths

### 2026-07-02: Ecuador takes custody of captured Los Tiguerones leader ‘Gato Negro’

Colombian police, Interpol and U.S. Marshals captured Los Tiguerones leader ‘Gato Negro’; he was transferred to Ecuador for extradition and imprisonment.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/ecuador-takes-custody-of-captured-los-tiguerones-leader-gato-negro

### 2026-07-02: US designates Ecuadorian gangs Chone Killers, Los Choneros, and Los Lobos as terrorist groups

The U.S. has branded three Ecuadorian gangs—Chone Killers, Los Choneros and Los Lobos—as terrorist groups, enabling sanctions and tighter cooperation with Ecuador’s anti‑crime efforts.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/us-designates-ecuadorian-gangs-chone-killers-los-choneros-and-los-lobos-as-terrorist-groups

### 2026-07-02: Teacher Adriana Sáenz killed in La Roldós, Quito

35‑year‑old teacher Adriana Sáenz was shot dead by two motorcycle gunmen as she left home for work in Quito’s La Roldós district on July 1; police are probing a possible link to a past domestic‑abuse case.

4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/ecuadorian-teacher-adriana-senz-fatally-shot-in-north-quito

### 2026-07-01: US State Department designates Ecuadorian gang Chone Killers as foreign terrorist organization

The U.S. State Department designated Ecuador's Chone Killers as a foreign terrorist organization, imposing sanctions and linking the gang to drug‑trafficking cartels; Ecuador thanked the U.S. for the move amid,

4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/us-state-department-designates-ecuadorian-gang-chone-killers-as-foreign-terrorist-organization

### 2026-07-01: Ecuador enacts law penalizing unauthorized use of police and military uniforms

Ecuador's new law, signed by President Daniel Noboa, raises prison terms for illegal use of police and military uniforms and gives the Comptroller power to delete classified documents, with media required toair

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/ecuador-enacts-law-penalizing-unauthorized-use-of-police-and-military-uniforms

### 2026-07-01: U.S. labels Ecuador's Chone Killers gang as foreign terrorist group

The U.S. State Department, announced by Secretary Marco Rubio, designated Ecuador’s Chone Killers gang as a foreign terrorist organization and specially‑designated global terrorist, citing attacks on civilians,

15 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/us-designates-ecuadors-los-chone-killers-as-foreign-terrorist-organization

### 2026-06-29: Ecuador army uncovers multiple clandestine graves in anti‑gang raid in La Troncal

Ecuadorian forces raided a Los Águilas hideout in La Troncal, seizing weapons and cocaine and uncovering several hidden graves of rival gang members; three suspects were arrested.

4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/ecuador-army-uncovers-multiple-clandestine-graves-in-antigang-raid-in-la-troncal

### 2026-06-29: Ecuador removes illegal security cameras from Guayaquil cooperative

Ecuadorian forces removed 25 illegal cameras from a Guayaquil cooperative, suspected of aiding organized crime; similar nationwide removals total about 1,000 devices.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/ecuador-removes-illegal-security-cameras-from-guayaquil-cooperative

### 2026-06-26: Ecuador grapples with wave of lethal attacks in Esmeraldas and El Oro provinces

Ecuador reports a surge in lethal attacks, with three murders in Esmeraldas' Rioverde and Quinindé cantons and 42 women killed in El Oro province this year, prompting calls for urgent action.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/ecuador-grapples-with-wave-of-lethal-attacks-in-esmeraldas-and-el-oro-provinces

### 2026-06-26: Ecuador police and military seize 58 suspects in anti‑crime raids

Ecuador security forces arrested 58 suspects in Guayaquil and Quito, confiscating weapons, drugs and illegal tobacco.

5 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/ecuador-police-and-military-seize-58-suspects-in-anticrime-raids

### 2026-06-25: Ecuador receives expelled Los Choneros leader Ronald Macías from Colombia

Colombia expelled Ronald Macías, a top Los Choneros gang leader wanted by Ecuador, after his arrest in Bogotá, highlighting bilateral cooperation against transnational crime.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/ecuador-receives-expelled-los-choneros-leader-ronald-macas-from-colombia

### 2026-06-23: Ecuador sees surge in political violence amid new state of emergency

Ecuador declared a state of emergency in June 2026 as a wave of assassinations—including a gang leader, an anti‑corruption activist, and a prosecutor—sparked EU and Polish calls for investigation.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/ecuador-sees-surge-in-political-violence-amid-new-state-of-emergency

### 2026-06-23: Student shooting in Guayaquil underscores rising school violence in South America

Two student shootings in Guayaquil, Ecuador, occurred within 24 hours, while Peru's Arequipa region reported 318 school‑violence cases in the first half of 2026, prompting a national safety congress.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/student-shooting-in-guayaquil-underscores-rising-school-violence-in-south-america

### 2026-06-23: Ecuador Police Crush Organized Crime in Nationwide Operations

Ecuador's police captured 381 criminals, hit 52 gangs and seized drugs, weapons and cash, while also rescuing a kidnapping victim and arresting four suspects in Chone.

6 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/ecuador-police-capture-murder-suspect-amid-44-adolescent-homicide-rise

### 2026-06-22: Ecuador police stop kidnapping, detain five suspects in El Cebollar

Ecuador police arrested five men and isolated a sixth after stopping an attempted kidnapping in Cuenca, preventing a likely murder and injuring one attacker.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/ecuador-police-stop-kidnapping-detain-five-suspects-in-el-cebollar

### 2026-06-22: Multiple shootings leave dead and wounded in Guayaquil, Ecuador

Gunmen on motorcycles carried out multiple attacks in Guayaquil on 23 June, killing several people, including a gym instructor and a pregnant market vendor, and leaving others wounded.

4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/trinitaria-island-shooting-leaves-two-dead-one-injured-in-guayaquil

### 2026-06-21: Armed attack on vehicle in La Joya, Daule leaves one dead and one injured

A June 20 shooting on a black SUV in La Joya, Daule, Ecuador killed one man and injured another; both victims had criminal records, and police are probing the attackers' motive.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/armed-attack-on-vehicle-in-la-joya-daule-leaves-one-dead-and-one-injured

### 2026-06-21: Ibarra Shooting Leaves One Dead and Six Injured as Two Teen Suspects Are Detained

Two teens opened fire during a football screening in Ibarra, Ecuador, killing a 16‑year‑old girl and injuring six, including councilwoman Mery Congo; one suspect was arrested, the other fled.

5 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/ibarra-shooting-leaves-one-dead-and-six-injured-as-two-teen-suspects-are-detained

### 2026-06-21: Ecuador's violence surge prompts states of exception and anti‑mafia law push

Ecuador’s homicide rate hit 9,216 in 2025, prompting a 15th state of exception, a recognition of internal conflict and an anti‑mafia bill with U.S. and Italian input.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/ecuadors-violence-surge-prompts-states-of-exception-and-antimafia-law-push

### 2026-06-19: Ecuadorian forces seize armed Los Lagartos suspect in Guayaquil

Ecuadorian forces arrested a Los Lagartos gang member in Guayaquil, seizing weapons and turning the suspect over to the courts.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/ecuadorian-forces-seize-armed-los-lagartos-suspect-in-guayaquil

### 2026-06-18: Ecuador gang leader shot dead at Guayaquil airport

Two teenagers disguised with a bouquet and plush toy assassinated Los Águilas boss Carlos Suastegui at Guayaquil airport as Ecuador's president declared a state of emergency over soaring gang violence.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/ecuador-gang-leader-shot-dead-at-guayaquil-airport

### 2026-06-18: Ecuadorian gang chief ‘Javi’ expelled from Colombia, handed to authorities in Ecuador

Ecuadorian Los Choneros leader Ronald Javier Macías Villamar (‘Javi’) captured in Bogotá, expelled by Colombia and transferred to Ecuador to be jailed pending trial.

8 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/ecuadorian-gang-leader-ronald-macas-javi-captured-in-bogot-and-expelled-to-ecuador

### 2026-06-18: Brother of Ecuador’s drug kingpin ‘Fito’ arrested in Colombia

Ecuadorian police and Colombian authorities captured Javi Macías, brother of drug trafficker ‘Fito’ Masías, in Colombia; he faces murder, money‑laundering and gang charges.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/brother-of-ecuadors-drug-kingpin-fito-arrested-in-colombia

### 2026-06-18: Ecuadorian gang leader Carlos Suástegui killed in Guayaquil airport shooting

Gang leader Carlos Suástegui was shot dead by two teen gunmen outside Guayaquil’s airport on June 17; the suspects were arrested, sparking renewed security concerns amid Ecuador’s state of emergency.

13 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/gang-leader-carlos-alberto-sustegui-slain-in-guayaquil-airport-attack

### 2026-06-17: Ecuador and Colombia seize Los Choneros member and dismantle cocaine complex

Ecuador captured Los Choneros’ “Javi” in Colombia for extradition on money‑laundering charges, and together with Colombia and the U.S. DEA dismantled a large cocaine‑processing complex in Nariño, seizing drugs,

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/ecuador-and-colombia-seize-los-choneros-member-and-dismantle-cocaine-complex

### 2026-06-17: Guayaquil police arrest suspect in double homicide tied to gang dispute

Guayaquil police detained a 41‑year‑old suspect after finding two incinerated, bound bodies on streets 41 and F, linking the double homicide to a gang territorial dispute.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/guayaquil-police-arrest-suspect-in-double-homicide-tied-to-gang-dispute

### 2026-06-17: Ecuadorian gang leader's brother Javi arrested in Colombia

Colombian police arrested Ronald Javier Macías Villamar (“Javi”), brother of Los Choneros boss “Fito”, in a joint operation with Ecuador; he faces money‑laundering charges and will be extradited.

15 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/ronald-javier-macas-villamar-captured-in-colombia-after-crossborder-sting

### 2026-06-16: Ecuador police conduct multiple arrests in June 16 operations, capturing murder suspect and others

Ecuador police arrested suspects for sexual assault, a missing British teen, a top murder fugitive and two gang teens on 16 June 2026 in separate operations.

4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/british-teenager-rescued-in-ecuador-after-interpol-led-search

### 2026-06-16: Shootings in Samborondón, Ecuador and Talara, Peru leave victims wounded

A 33‑year‑old man was killed in a shooting in Samborondón, Ecuador, while a 60‑year‑old money changer was wounded and robbed of 10,000 soles in Talara, Peru.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/shootings-in-samborondn-ecuador-and-talara-peru-leave-victims-wounded

### 2026-06-14: Prosecutor Alexandra Bravo shot dead in Manta, Ecuador amid rising drug‑gang violence

Prosecutor Alexandra Bravo and her sister were shot dead in Manta, Ecuador, in an attack linked to Los Choneros cartel violence; the murder follows a pattern of assaults on magistrates amid the government’s war

6 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/prosecutor-alexandra-bravo-shot-dead-in-manta-ecuador-amid-rising-druggang-violence

### 2026-06-13: Ecuador police rescue two kidnapping victims and arrest six in Ambato raid

Ecuador police rescued two kidnapping victims and arrested six suspects of the “Los Lobos” gang in Ambato, seizing vehicles, equipment and cash.

4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/ecuador-police-rescue-two-kidnapping-victims-and-arrest-six-in-ambato-raid

### 2026-06-12: Ecuador's contract killing surge highlighted by murder of UDLA finance chief in Quito

A university finance manager was shot dead in Quito, prompting UDLA's condolence statement, as Ecuador reports a 70% rise in contract killings early 2026.

4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/ecuadors-contract-killing-surge-highlighted-by-murder-of-udla-finance-chief-in-quito

### 2026-06-12: Ecuador's coastal cities face surge in lethal gun attacks

Gun violence surged in Ecuador’s coastal cities, with three killings in Esmeraldas on 12 June and a wave of murders in Guayaquil, including teenage victims on 9 June, leaving residents fearful and fleeing the中心

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/ecuadorian-cities-face-surge-in-deadly-gun-violence

### 2026-06-11: Two Young Victims Found Dead in Vinces, Ecuador

Two youths were found dead in a Vinces home; police have sealed the scene and are investigating possible homicide.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/two-young-victims-found-dead-in-vinces-ecuador

### 2026-06-11: Ecuador police arrest bus robbery suspects; Panama prison raid seizes weapons

Ecuador police stopped a bus robbery, arresting four suspects and seizing weapons, while Panama's joint police‑naval raid at Nueva Esperanza prison uncovered firearms, knives, phones and drugs.

6 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/ecuador-police-arrest-bus-robbery-suspects-panama-prison-raid-seizes-weapons

### 2026-06-11: Ecuador captures gang leader 'Sampayo' alongside three police officers in Machala

Ecuador’s police arrested alleged gang boss Cristopher “Sampayo” and three officers who escorted him in a patrol car in Machala, seizing weapons and launching internal investigations.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/ecuador-arrests-gang-leader-sampayo-and-three-police-officers-in-machala

### 2026-06-10: Ecuador police and army arrest murder suspect in Bolívar province

Ecuador’s police and army jointly detained 22‑year‑old Jonathan Gualberto on a murder warrant during a checkpoint operation in Bolívar province.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/ecuador-police-and-army-arrest-murder-suspect-in-bolvar-province

### 2026-06-10: Armed attacks kill two men in Ecuador on June 10

Two separate gun attacks on June 10 killed men in Esmeraldas and on the road to Samborondón, Ecuador, prompting police investigations.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/armed-attacks-kill-two-men-in-ecuador-on-june-10

### 2026-06-09: Armed attack in Chongón, Ecuador kills two and wounds five

Two dead and five injured after gunmen on motorcycles opened fire on spectators at a volleyball game in Chongón, Ecuador on June 8; police are investigating.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/armed-attack-in-chongn-ecuador-kills-two-and-wounds-five

### 2026-06-09: Ecuador's Assembly pushes sweeping penal code reforms

Ecuador's Assembly is overhauling the COIP with new crimes and harsher penalties, and has approved a law criminalising unauthorized use of police and military uniforms.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/ecuadors-assembly-pushes-sweeping-penal-code-reforms

### 2026-06-07: Two killed and two injured in separate gun attacks in Santa Elena, Ecuador

Two gun attacks in Santa Elena, Ecuador this weekend left two dead—including bar worker Shirley Cuesta—and two injured, raising the province's 2026 homicide total to 88.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/two-killed-and-two-injured-in-separate-gun-attacks-in-santa-elena-ecuador

### 2026-06-05: Pelileo, Ecuador community detains armed robbers and burns vehicles

Ecuadorian residents in Pelileo blocked an armed robbery, helped police arrest four suspects, and burned two vehicles linked to the crime.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/pelileo-ecuador-community-detains-armed-robbers-and-burns-vehicles

### 2026-06-04: Eight murder victims identified; families receive bodies in Daule, Ecuador

Eight missing people were found dead in sacks near Daule, Ecuador; bodies identified and returned to families, with authorities linking the killings to a drug‑territory dispute and offering a reward for leads.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/eight-murder-victims-identified-families-receive-bodies-in-daule-ecuador

### 2026-06-04: Ecuador police operation “Apolo 26” arrests 36 in Quito

Ecuador’s police raid “Apolo 26” in Quito on 4 June 2026 arrested 19, detained 17, seized weapons, drugs and stolen vehicles, and captured two alleged “Los Lobos” gang members.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/ecuador-police-operation-apolo-26-arrests-36-in-quito

### 2026-06-03: Ecuador discovers eight bagged corpses amid gang violence

Ecuadorian police found eight bagged corpses near Babahoyo, linked to a gang clash between Los Lobos and Los Choneros and possibly the missing youths from May, sparking family protests.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/ecuador-discovers-eight-bagged-corpses-amid-gang-violence

### 2026-06-03: Ecuador sees 28% fall in homicides and sharp robbery decline in May

Ecuador’s Interior Ministry says May 2026 homicides fell 27.7% to 676 and robberies dropped dramatically, crediting security operations under a state of exception.

4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/motorcyclist-deaths-dominate-costa-rica-road-fatalities-in-early-2026

### 2026-06-01: Ecuadorian father and daughter found dead in Quito's Carapungo, homicide probe opened

Ecuadorian prosecutors opened a homicide inquiry after a father and his 23‑year‑old daughter were found dead in Quito's Carapungo, with knives, a hammer and phones seized as evidence.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/father-and-daughter-found-murdered-in-quitos-carapungo-neighborhood

### 2026-06-01: Ecuador reports 27.7% drop in intentional homicides in May 2026

Ecuador's Interior Ministry says intentional homicides fell 27.7% in May 2026, from 935 to 676, alongside sharp drops in robberies and a rise in police arrests and weapon seizures.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/ecuador-reports-277-drop-in-intentional-homicides-in-may-2026

### 2026-05-24: Three killed in a series of armed attacks in Santa Elena, Ecuador

Four gun attacks in six hours in Santa Elena, Ecuador killed three and injured two, raising the province's homicide tally to 65 this year amid a surge in sicariate crimes.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/three-killed-in-a-series-of-armed-attacks-in-santa-elena-ecuador

### 2026-05-23: Two fiscal secretaries killed in armed attack near Manta prosecutor's office

Two fiscal secretaries were shot dead near Manta’s prosecutor’s office on 23 May, sparking fears of rising organized‑crime violence in Ecuador’s most conflict‑prone city.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/two-fiscal-secretaries-killed-in-armed-attack-near-manta-prosecutors-office

### 2026-05-20: Ecuador reports double homicide in Loja and fatal house fire in Guayaquil

Ecuador confronted two tragedies: a double homicide in Loja linked to drug trafficking, and a deadly house fire in Guayaquil that left five dead and prompted emergency aid.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/ecuador-reports-double-homicide-in-loja-and-fatal-house-fire-in-guayaquil

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Cite as: Ecuador organized crime and security crisis. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/series-of-violent-incidents-hit-ecuador-in-may-2026